Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme – The Kerala government has established the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme through its Social Justice Department to promote social equality. Under this initiative, the government provides financial assistance to couples who marry from different castes. It’s important to note that this program does not cover couples where either partner belongs to a scheduled caste or scheduled tribe. To access the benefits, you must present a valid marriage certificate. Below, we detail everything you need to know about the Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme, including key highlights, objectives, features and benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and how to apply for the scheme both online and offline.
Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme 2025
The Kerala government has launched the Dr. MGR Memorial Scheme, commonly known as the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme, which aims to foster social harmony and dismantle caste barriers within the state. Couples residing in Kerala who are from different castes can apply for financial support of up to Rs. 30,000, along with various additional benefits like housing and educational subsidies. Additionally, the scheme provides counseling and legal support when needed, promoting social inclusion, equality, and integration, thus striving for a peaceful and equitable society.
Highlights of Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme
| Name | Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme |
| Initiated by | Government of Kerala |
| Department | Social Justice and Empowerment Department |
| State | Kerala |
| Beneficiary | Inter-Caste Couples in Kerala |
| Objective | Promoting inter-caste marriages and combating social stigma |
| Benefits | Financial aid of Rs. 30,000 |
| Application Mode | Online/Offline |
| Official Website | https://edistrict.kerala.gov.in/ |
Objective of the Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme
The primary aim of this program is to provide monetary support and resources for couples opting to marry outside their caste. The core objectives include promoting inter-caste unions and combating caste-based discrimination in society.
Significance of the Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme
In a society where caste-based inequality persists, the Inter-Caste Marriage Scheme is crucial. By offering financial incentives to couples marrying outside their caste, the scheme works to create social harmony. It challenges entrenched beliefs surrounding caste hierarchies and encourages values of equality and inclusion by supporting intercaste marriages. This initiative aids in dismantling barriers that have historically divided communities, fostering understanding among various castes and religions.
The program also demonstrates successful intercaste marriages as a way to inspire others, helping diminish biases and stereotypes associated with such unions. It promotes an environment where love and respect serve as the foundation of relationships, allowing individuals the freedom to choose their partners without fear of social stigma or exclusion.
Features & Benefits of Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme
Here are some vital features and benefits of the Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme:
- This program aims to empower marginalized communities by ensuring that economically weaker sections do not face financial burdens for weddings.
- The Kerala government extends financial assistance even to couples from scheduled castes under certain conditions.
- A financial grant of Rs. 30,000 is provided to eligible intercaste couples to assist with marriage-related expenses. Couples must submit an agreement to their Local Self Government Institution (LSGI) to access these funds.
- The scheme is fully sponsored by the Kerala government, ensuring all administrative facets are handled effectively.
- Collaborating NGOs and recognized organizations will work alongside the state government in managing marriage planning, with oversight from departmental representatives.
Eligibility Criteria for Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme
To be eligible for the Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Only legally married couples are eligible for financial support.
- The combined annual family income of the couple must not exceed Rs. 50,000.
- Financial aid is provided only once to each couple.
- Funds can be utilized for purposes such as starting a business, purchasing land, or constructing a house.
- LSGIs will monitor the proper allocation of funds.
- Couples should apply for financial aid within one to two years of their wedding, but no later than a year after marriage.
- Couples granted assistance must sign a contract to be submitted to the LSGIs.
- As per Government letter No.-1151/C1/2012/SWD dated 21-06-2012, requests beyond three years post-marriage will not be entertained.
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Required Documents for Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme
The following documents are essential for applying to the Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme:
- Aadhaar Card
- ID Proof
- Affidavit
- Election ID Card
- Documentation certifying caste
- Marriage Certificate
- Inter-Caste Marriage Certificate
- Ration Card
- School Certificate
- Income Certificate from the concerned Village Officer
Steps to Register for Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme 2025
To apply for the Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme, follow these steps:
- Visit the official website of Kerala e-District.
- The homepage will appear on your screen.
- Click on the Create Your Account Now button.
- Fill in the registration form with required details, including name, birthdate, house number, locality, district, mobile number, Aadhaar number, etc.
- Create a username and password.
- Enter the captcha code and accept the declaration before clicking on the validate button to complete registration.
Steps to Apply for Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Online
To apply online, follow these detailed steps:
- Go to the official website of Kerala e-District.
- The homepage will open for you.
- Click on the Sign in button.
- Log in using your username, password, and captcha code.
- After logging in, the dashboard will be visible. Click on Inter-Caste Marriage Certificate.
- Then click on the Apply Now button.
- Select the eDistrict Registration Number and indicate the purpose of the application (State Purpose or Outside State Purpose).
- Complete the caste details and accept the declaration before clicking on Save and Forward.
- Upload all required documents and click on the Next button.
- Make the necessary payment; an acknowledgment slip will be generated upon successful payment.
- Save this slip for your records.
Steps to Apply for Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Scheme Offline
For offline applications, follow these steps:
- Visit the nearest Village Office or Akshaya Centre.
- Request the application form from the officials.
- Fill out the form with necessary details.
- Attach all required documents to the application form.
- Submit the completed application form to the officials.
Steps to Download Kerala Inter Caste Marriage Certificate
To download your Kerala Inter-Caste Marriage Certificate, do the following:
- Visit the official website of Kerala e-District.
- The homepage will appear for you.
- Click on the Sign in button.
- Log in using your username, password, and captcha code.
- Upon logging in, go to Certificate Applications.
- Choose the From Date and To Date for your certificate.
- Click the Go button to view your certificate.
- Download the certificate by clicking on the download button.